Sridhara Temple
The Sridhara Temple is a unique and lesser-known gem among the famous terracotta temples of Bishnupur. Built in the 19th century by the Basu Family, this temple stands out due to its distinctive Pancha-bingshatiratna style, which translates to "twenty-five pinnacles" or peaks. While some sources ref er to it as Nava-Ratna (nine spires), the original design featured 25 spires, a testament to the ambitious vision of its builders. The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, worshipped in the form of Sridhar or Shaligram. The temple's exterior and interior are a canvas of exquisite terracotta work, with intricate carvings and sculptures that narrate tales from Hindu epics like the Ramayana and the Mahabharata. The detailed panels showcase a variety of themes, including deities, mythological figures, and scenes of daily life, offering a fascinating glimpse into the artistic and cultural heritage of the Malla dynasty period. Despite being a later addition to the town's temple landscape, its architectural grandeur and detailed craftsmanship make it a significant historical and religious site. The temple's serene and less-crowded atmosphere provides a tranquil space for visitors to appreciate the artistry and spiritual ambiance.
General information
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Ideal Duration:
30-45 minutesPlace Type:
Temple, Heritage SiteEntry Fees:
No Entry Fees: The Sridhara Temple does not have any entry fees. It is free to visit and explore. However, visitors may be required to purchase a combined ticket at the Rasmancha monument, which grants access to all major ASI-protected temples in Bishnupur. It is advisabl...No Entry Fees: The Sridhara Temple does not have any entry fees. It is free to visit and explore. However, visitors may be required to purchase a combined ticket at the Rasmancha monument, which grants access to all major ASI-protected temples in Bishnupur. It is advisable to check with the local authorities or guides regarding the current ticketing system.Timing:
Regular Timings: The Sridhara Temple is open from sunrise to sunset, typically from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM on all days of the week.
Ideal Visit Time: The ideal time to visit is during the morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat of the day. ...Regular Timings: The Sridhara Temple is open from sunrise to sunset, typically from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM on all days of the week.
Ideal Visit Time: The ideal time to visit is during the morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat of the day. The early hours are perfect for peaceful exploration and photography, while the late afternoon offers beautiful light for capturing stunning images.Special Events:
Religious Ceremonies: While there are no large-scale annual fairs or events specifically associated with the Sridhara Temple, local religious ceremonies and daily worship continue. These events offer a glimpse into the living traditions of the place. On special occasions a...Religious Ceremonies: While there are no large-scale annual fairs or events specifically associated with the Sridhara Temple, local religious ceremonies and daily worship continue. These events offer a glimpse into the living traditions of the place. On special occasions and Hindu festivals, the temple may see a small gathering of devotees for prayers and rituals. Observing these ceremonies, if possible, can provide a more authentic and cultural experience.Best Photo Spots:
Frontal View: A photograph from the front of the temple, capturing its unique structure and the intricate terracotta carvings on its facade, is a must. The symmetrical design and the detail of the spires (even in their ruined state) make for a compelling image.Frontal View: A photograph from the front of the temple, capturing its unique structure and the intricate terracotta carvings on its facade, is a must. The symmetrical design and the detail of the spires (even in their ruined state) make for a compelling image.
Close-ups of Terracotta Panels: Dedicate time to capturing close-up shots of the terracotta plaques. Focus on the scenes from the epics, the depictions of deities, and the delicate floral patterns. These photos will highlight the exceptional artistry of the Malla artisans.
Golden Hour Shots: Visit the temple during sunrise or sunset. The warm, soft light of the golden hour enhances the rich, reddish tones of the laterite and terracotta, making the temple glow and creating a magical atmosphere for photography.
Garden and Temple: The temple is situated in a well-maintained garden. Use the lush greenery as a foreground to frame the temple, providing a sense of scale and a beautiful contrast between nature and man-made art.Photo Gallery
Things To Do
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Explore the Terracotta Art: The primary activity at the Sridhara Temple is to meticulously examine its terracotta panels. The temple is a treasure trove of art, and you can spend a significant amount of time studying the various scenes. Look for panels depicting the Ramayana and Mahabharata, as well as scenes from the life of Lord Krishna. Notice the details of the figures' costumes, ornaments, and expressions. Take close-up photos to capture the intricate work.
Architectural Study: For those interested in architecture, the temple offers a unique opportunity to study the rare Pancha-bingshatiratna style. Walk around the temple to observe its structure, the high plinth, the remains of the multiple spires, and how the laterite bricks were used as the primary building material. Pay attention to the way the terracotta plaques ...
Information
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Why Famous:
Architectural Uniqueness: The Sridhara Temple is famous for its rare Pancha-bingshatiratna architectural style. While most temples in Bishnupur follow the Eka-Ratna (single-spired) or Pancha-Ratna (five-spired) styles, the Sridhara Temple's original design with 25 ...
Architectural Uniqueness: The Sridhara Temple is famous for its rare Pancha-bingshatiratna architectural style. While most temples in Bishnupur follow the Eka-Ratna (single-spired) or Pancha-Ratna (five-spired) styles, the Sridhara Temple's original design with 25 pinnacles makes it an architectural anomaly and a point of great interest for scholars and tourists alike. This ambitious design showcases the artistic and engineering prowess of the artisans of the era.
Exquisite Terracotta Detailing: The temple's claim to fame is its highly ornate terracotta panels. The temple walls are a living museum of intricate terracotta art, with each carving meticulously crafted to depict scenes from mythology, daily life, and the court of the Malla kings. The detailing is so fine that it captures the expressions and movements of the figures, bringing the ancient narratives to life. This level of craftsmanship is a prime example of the artistic zenith achieved during the Malla dynasty's patronage of Vaishnavism and temple building. -
Architecture:
Architectural Style and Features: The Sridhara Temple is a remarkable example of the Pancha-bingshatiratna or Nava-Ratna architectural style, a rarity in Bishnupur. This style is defined by a central tower surrounded by multiple smaller towers or spires. The temple is buil...Architectural Style and Features: The Sridhara Temple is a remarkable example of the Pancha-bingshatiratna or Nava-Ratna architectural style, a rarity in Bishnupur. This style is defined by a central tower surrounded by multiple smaller towers or spires. The temple is built on a high plinth and constructed primarily of laterite and terracotta bricks, which were the signature materials of the Malla period. The unique feature of this temple is its elaborate design with 25 pinnacles, arranged in three levels of twelve, eight, and four, culminating in a central pinnacle. Although the spires are now in a dilapidated state, with the central one having collapsed, the structure still showcases the complexity of its original design.
Terracotta Artistry and Dimensions: The true beauty of the Sridhara Temple lies in its rich terracotta ornamentation. Every surface of the temple, from the walls to the pillars and arches, is covered with detailed terracotta plaques. These carvings depict a wide range of subjects, including scenes from the life of Lord Krishna and other Puranic themes, along with intricate floral and geometric patterns. The dimensions of the temple are not as widely documented as other major temples, but its structure is built on a square plan, rising to a considerable height that would have originally been capped by its 25 spires, making it a towering landmark in its prime. The detailed craftsmanship on the terracotta panels is the main highlight, with each piece telling a story. -
How To Reach:
By Air: The nearest airport is Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport (CCU) in Kolkata. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Bishnupur. The distance is approximately 140-150 km, and the journey takes about 4-5 hours.
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Near Tourist Places:
Jor Mandir Complex: Approximately 1-2 km
Madanmohan Temple: Very close, within walking distance Pancha Ratna Temple (Shyam Rai Temple) Approximately 2-3 km
Rasmancha: Approximately 2-3 km
Dalmadal Cannon: Approximately 2-3 km
Lalji Temple: Approximately 2-3 km
Susunia Hill: Approximately 46 km
Mukutmonipur Dam: Approximately 57 km
Joyrambati: Approximately 33 km Panchmura (Terracotta Village) Approximately 20 km
Tourism Tips
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Health & Safety: Carry a water bottle to stay hydrated, especially during warmer months. Wear comfortable shoes as you will be doing a lot of walking. Be mindful of your belongings and keep them secure. It's always a good idea to have some cash on hand for local transport...
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